Abstract:
Venture capitalists and their limited partners have long bemoaned lackluster returns and the lengthening time until exits for portfolio companies. Publicly held venture firm Harris & Harris Group has gotten tired of waiting, and said it plans to invest more in public companies in a bid to make faster returns.

Since 2002, Harris & Harris has focused on backing companies with products based on nanotechnology or microsystems. Its private-company portfolio includes Mersana Therapeutics Inc., which develops cancer therapies based on its biodegradable polymer technology, and Solazyme Inc., which uses algae to produce clean fuels, chemicals, foods and health-science products.